Deliberate and Targeted Shooting Claims Life of 21-Year-Old Man in Wollert, Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia — July 31, 2025 — A violent and shocking shooting in the northern Melbourne suburb of Wollert has left a 21-year-old man dead in what police have described as a “deliberate and targeted” attack. The incident, which unfolded in broad daylight on Thursday morning, has sent ripples of fear and concern throughout the community.

The Shooting and Immediate Aftermath

Victoria Police responded to reports of a shooting just before 9 a.m. Thursday in a laneway behind a residential property on Champions Parade in Wollert. Upon arrival, officers found the victim, identified as Athan Boursinos, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the rapid response of emergency medical personnel, Boursinos was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives from the Homicide Squad quickly took charge of the investigation, describing the attack as highly deliberate and targeted. Authorities believe the victim was specifically singled out during an altercation that escalated to fatal violence.

In the wake of the shooting, the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle that was subsequently discovered abandoned and burned out on Amery Street in Reservoir, roughly 10 kilometers from the shooting location.

Who Was Athan Boursinos?

The victim, Athan Boursinos, was the son of a retired Victoria Police officer and was well known in certain circles for his involvement with local criminal elements. Court records reveal that Boursinos was scheduled to appear in court on the same day for various charges including drug possession, weapons offenses, theft, and driving violations.

Reports suggest that Boursinos had associations with organized crime figures in the Melbourne area, including connections to the exiled crime boss Kazem ‘Kaz’ Hamad. Police are actively investigating whether the shooting is connected to ongoing gangland activity and criminal rivalries.

Police Investigation and Public Appeal

Detective Inspector Dean Thomas, leading the homicide investigation, stated:

“This shooting was a very deliberate and obviously targeted attack. We are pursuing all leads and urge anyone with information, particularly those with dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident, to come forward. The community’s assistance is vital to bringing those responsible to justice.”

As forensic teams processed the crime scene in Wollert, police officers canvassed the neighborhood seeking witnesses and surveillance footage that may shed light on the identity and whereabouts of the perpetrator(s).

Impact on the Wollert Community

The shooting has left Wollert residents stunned and concerned about the rise of violent crime in their otherwise peaceful suburb. Community leaders have expressed grief over the loss of a young life but have also acknowledged the complexities surrounding Boursinos’ background.

Local resident Karen Mitchell shared:

“It’s heartbreaking to hear about a shooting so close to home. Wollert has been growing fast, and we want to feel safe in our neighborhood. I hope the police catch whoever did this and that we can find ways to keep our community safe.”

Community outreach groups are calling for greater resources to tackle youth crime and gang violence, emphasizing prevention and support alongside law enforcement efforts.

Context: Melbourne’s Struggle with Organized Crime

This incident is the latest in a troubling series of violent crimes linked to gang activity in Melbourne’s northern suburbs. Authorities have intensified their crackdown on organized crime networks following several high-profile murders earlier this year.

The police have indicated that the Wollert shooting may be part of ongoing feuds among criminal factions, signaling a continuing challenge for law enforcement in dismantling these networks.

What’s Next?

Victoria Police continue to investigate the fatal shooting thoroughly. No arrests have been made yet, but officials are optimistic that with community cooperation and ongoing forensic work, they will identify and apprehend the individuals responsible.

In the meantime, the Wollert community mourns the loss of a young man whose life was cut tragically short, highlighting the broader issues of crime and violence affecting suburban Melbourne.

Summary of Key Facts:

• Victim: Athan Boursinos, 21, son of a retired Victoria Police officer
• Location: Laneway behind a residential property on Champions Parade, Wollert
• Time: Shortly before 9 a.m., July 31, 2025
• Incident: Multiple gunshot wounds, declared dead at the scene
• Suspect: Unknown; vehicle used fled scene and later found burned in Reservoir
• Investigation: Ongoing by Victoria Police Homicide Squad
• Context: Possible ties to organized crime and gang activity

This article will be updated as new information becomes available.